Yesterday—the fourth Sunday in Advent—we welcomed Rev. Elias Burgos to the pulpit. He will return next Sunday, December 28.
We also enjoyed seeing the display of creches (manger scenes) brought by members and friends for all to enjoy.
TODAY—Monday, Dec. 22—the “Bible 101” class (last in a series) will NOT take place due to limited parking at the church. The class will be postponed to January 12.
Please join in thanking Peter and Joy Baird, who—with the help of their granddaughters—set up the aisle candleabrae today for use on Christmas Eve!
WEDNESDAY, Dec. 24—This is our eighth “Coffee & Conversation” … happening each Wednesday 8:30-10:30 a.m. in the Social Hall! Enjoy free coffee and pastries. This is the perfect excuse to get out of the house for a bit and hang with others. It’s informal; drop in any time. Come by yourself or bring a friend. Meet new people. There’s a place for you here! Questions? Want to help? See Mark Strack, who is organizing this project. More details here.
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE • WEDNESDAY, DEC. 24 • 5 P.M.
Join us for a service of familiar Christmas carols and the Christmas story as we welcome the Christ child into our midst again. This family friendly service, led by Jim Guida, starts 5 p.m. in the sanctuary followed by bell-ringing on the church steps, then refreshments and a sing-along led by Peter Baird in the Social Hall. Details.
INTERFAITH PRAYER VIGIL WAS DECEMBER 18
Bethany was represented Thursday, December 18, at the multi-faith prayer vigil in solidarity with immigrants, held outside the John Moss federal building in downtown Sacramento. Speaking at the gathering was Rev. Janice Kamikawa. Peter Baird was among those leading the procession of participants from Our Lady of Guadalupe Church on T Street to the federal building, playing his guitar and leading everyone in song. Also attending were Jackie Sneed and Maria Mar, Bethany’s former office manager (now treasurer for the North Central California Presbytery). The vigil was an opportunity for people of all faiths and spiritual backgrounds to stand together, using the poignant seasonal story of Mary and Joseph seeking shelter as a bridge to understanding and a call to action for our shared community. You can read about the event’s sponsor—Sacramento Area Congregations Together—here. Stay tuned for info about other SacACT events as they are scheduled.
This is your invitation to make a financial pledge to Bethany for 2026. “Moving Forward With God: Count Me In!” is the theme, signifying that each of us is an active participant in the work of the lord here in our community. Please prayerfully consider how you may give of your time, talent and treasure in the coming year.
Many people are struggling financially this Christmas season, and our local food closet is striving to help them. We at Bethany will field a team of 5 volunteers for our upcoming food closet morning—Monday, December 29. The time frame is 8:30-11:40 a.m. Just three hours of your time can help us feed those who are experiencing food scarcity. Many are senior citizens and single parents. Contact Cathy Sapunor if you can lend a hand. More details are here.
Tuesday, Dec. 30 will be Bethany’s next Movie Group outing to see the animated film “David.” Time and location to be announced. “‘David’ Is the best animated Bible movie since "‘Prince of Egypt,” reports Brett McCracken of the Gospel Coalition. Watch for info to come!
Please pick up a “Christmas Joy Offering” envelope and return it with a contribution—no matter how small, it counts! This annual collection provides support for Presbyterian church workers and their families in their time of need and leadership development and education for communities of color at Presbyterian-related schools and colleges equipping communities of color. You can also give online here.
